Ari Aster’s secretive new project continues to generate buzz as another high-profile name joins the lineup. The Scarlett Johansson-led thriller has expanded its ensemble once again, adding a performer best known for bringing an iconic DC villain to life on television.
Scarlett Johansson’s Scapegoat adds Cory Michael Smith to ensemble cast
Cory Michael Smith has boarded the cast of Scapegoat, Aster’s forthcoming thriller headlined by Scarlett Johansson. Deadline confirmed the casting. Smith joins a stacked roster that includes Jacob Elordi, Jude Law, Ella Purnell, Caleb Landry Jones, and Samba Schutte. Aster wrote the screenplay and directs. He produces with partner Lars Knudsen via their Square Peg banner, while A24 handles distribution, continuing a partnership that spans all four of Aster’s prior films.
As of now, the plot remains a mystery. Insiders claim no clear picture has emerged: some speculate the story follows a doctor treating an internet celebrity, others describe it as science fiction romance, and some characterize it as a straightforward drama. It was previously reported that Scapegoat would be Aster’s first directorial effort since Eddington.
Moreover, Smith’s star continues to rise. He drew acclaim for HBO’s Mountainhead opposite Steve Carell and Ramy Youssef, and currently appears alongside Dakota Fanning and Jake Johnson in The Sun Never Sets. He next features in the A24 thriller Slayground, directed by Jeremy Saulnier, due January 29. Audiences also know him for playing Edward Nygma, the Riddler, across Gotham’s five-season run.
Cory Michael Smith once reflected on the character’s versatility: “What I love about [the character’s history] is how diverse it is in terms of how the character is portrayed, in terms of his appearance, the different costumes and hair color. Sometimes it’s incredibly ostentatious, other times it’s almost professional, or regal. Sometimes, he’s a showman, sometimes he’s a nerd” (via The Hollywood Reporter).
Now, Scapegoat strengthens Johansson’s busy slate and adds to Aster’s ties to A24. Cameras should roll later this year.
